Annette Jones’ dream was to own and operate a hair salon, boutique and spa. With no funding and a fear of failing, she didn’t know where to turn. In March 2009, she came across KCSourceLink on an internet search for small business resources. With a call to KCSourceLink, she was on the path to her dreams being realized.
Funding was the biggest hurdle to starting her business. She knew she needed a solid financial plan to seek investors. KCSourceLink referred her to SCORE to review her business plan. She was linked with a counselor who has more than 30 years experience in retail business.
KCSourceLink was able to identify other issues she might encounter such as licensing requirements, tax issues and employment processes. Annette’s initial referral from KCSourceLink was the First Step Program where she went through a feasibility study to see if her business idea was attainable. After every step in the process, Annette says she always referred back to KCSourceLink to guide her.
After numerous visits to local banks and being told “no, no, no” she was not discouraged. Annette sought the help of the Downtown Minority Development Council (DMDC), but without collateral they could not help her. Her luck changed with a visit to Cordish Corporation, operators of Kansas City’s Power & Light District. Her idea was so interesting, they offered matching funds if she could find an investor. With a strong business plan, she returned to the DMDC – a visit that proved successful when they agreed to terms for investment with the matching funds. She was on her way.
Seven months later on Oct. 9, 2009, Zafar Boutique, Salon and Spa opened its doors in Kansas City’s Power & Light District. Annette’s dream is a 10-station hair salon, two massage therapists, two estheticians (skin care) and retail sales including cosmetics, beauty supplies and perfume, in the city’s trendy Power & Light District. The concept of a salon, spa and boutique in one location is unique and Annette expects her business to be a popular one.
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